Japanese drugstores are a treasure trove for travelers, offering an impressive selection of health, beauty, skincare, and lifestyle products. From popular cosmetics and skincare lines to unique Japanese wellness items, these stores provide an exciting shopping experience with products that cater to locals and visitors alike. Japanese drugstores are known for their quality, affordability, and access to top-rated products, making them an essential stop for travelers looking to explore Japanese beauty and wellness.
This guide introduces some of the top-rated drugstores in Japan, along with must-try items and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Matsumoto Kiyoshi is one of Japan’s largest and most popular drugstore chains, known for its bright yellow signs and extensive selection of beauty, health, and skincare products. With branches in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, Matsumoto Kiyoshi is a convenient stop for travelers. The store offers a wide range of Japanese and international beauty brands, including popular items like Shiseido, Hada Labo, and Biore. Matsumoto Kiyoshi also has exclusive discounts and tax-free shopping for foreign visitors, making it a top choice for travelers.
Must-Try Products: Japanese sheet masks, sunscreen, and health supplements.
Locations: Found throughout Japan, particularly in high-traffic areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and major train stations.
2. Sun Drug
Sun Drug is another highly regarded Japanese drugstore chain, known for offering a variety of affordable cosmetics, skincare, and daily essentials. Sun Drug frequently has sales on popular items, allowing travelers to stock up on high-quality Japanese products at a fraction of the cost. This store carries well-known Japanese brands and an extensive range of vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines for any travel-related health needs.
Must-Try Products: Skin lotions, Japanese haircare products, and supplements.
Locations: Primarily located in Tokyo and nearby prefectures, with branches in key shopping districts.
3. Tsuruha Drug
Tsuruha Drug is one of Japan’s largest drugstore chains, with over 1,000 locations across the country. Tsuruha carries a diverse selection of products, including cosmetics, skincare, daily necessities, and health supplements. Known for its customer-friendly layout and affordable prices, Tsuruha Drug often offers loyalty programs, special discounts, and a tax-free shopping experience for tourists.
Must-Try Products: Anti-aging skincare, beauty masks, and Japanese herbal medicines.
Locations: Found nationwide, particularly in major cities and suburban areas.
4. Cosmos Drugstore
Cosmos Drugstore is especially popular in western Japan, with a wide variety of affordable products, including Japanese cosmetics, daily essentials, and groceries. Known for its competitive pricing, Cosmos Drugstore is a favorite among both locals and tourists looking for a budget-friendly shopping experience. It’s an ideal place to find basic travel items as well as unique Japanese beauty and wellness products.
Must-Try Products: Affordable cosmetics, snacks, and Japanese skincare products.
Locations: Predominantly located in Kyushu and western Japan, including Fukuoka and Hiroshima.
5. Welcia
Welcia is a drugstore chain known for its focus on health and wellness, offering an impressive range of pharmaceutical products, vitamins, and beauty items. In addition to popular Japanese skincare brands, Welcia also has a selection of organic and eco-friendly products, catering to a variety of customer needs. Welcia’s stores often feature pharmacies staffed by pharmacists, providing added convenience for travelers seeking advice on medications or wellness products.
Must-Try Products: Organic skincare, wellness supplements, and Japanese herbal teas.
Locations: Welcia stores can be found in urban and suburban areas throughout Japan.
6. Ainz & Tulpe
Ainz & Tulpe is a popular beauty-focused drugstore, known for its curated selection of skincare, cosmetics, and fragrances. With a trendy, modern interior, Ainz & Tulpe stores are a favorite for beauty lovers looking to explore Japanese and international beauty brands. This store is particularly famous for its diverse selection of makeup products, including exclusive items from Japanese brands and seasonal limited-edition collections.
Must-Try Products: High-quality Japanese cosmetics, makeup tools, and exclusive Japanese fragrance brands.
Locations: Found in shopping districts in Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities.
7. Sugi Pharmacy
Sugi Pharmacy is a drugstore chain known for its extensive selection of over-the-counter medications, health supplements, and skincare products. It is a convenient choice for travelers seeking remedies for common ailments or preventative health products. Sugi Pharmacy also carries a good range of Japanese beauty and personal care items, making it a well-rounded stop for both health and beauty needs.
Must-Try Products: Health supplements, herbal remedies, and Japanese sunscreens.
Locations: Available throughout Japan, with many stores in Tokyo and Osaka.
8. Seijo Cosmetics
Seijo Cosmetics is a specialized beauty and cosmetics store that focuses on high-quality skincare and makeup products. Known for its excellent selection of Japanese brands, Seijo Cosmetics is an ideal destination for beauty enthusiasts looking to explore the best of Japanese beauty. From anti-aging serums to trending makeup, Seijo offers a wide range of products that cater to various skin types and preferences.
Must-Try Products: Premium skincare products, beauty masks, and Japanese serums.
Locations: Primarily found in major urban areas, especially in Tokyo’s popular shopping districts.
These eight Japanese drugstores offer a unique and comprehensive shopping experience, with products ranging from beauty and wellness to daily necessities. Whether you’re looking for high-quality skincare, effective health supplements, or unique Japanese cosmetics, these drugstores are essential stops for travelers wanting to bring a piece of Japan back home.
